Question

The number of optically active compounds in $HOOC-CH\left(OH\right)-CH\left(OH\right)-CH\left(OH\right)-COOH$ is:

• A. 8
• B. 4
• C. 2
• D. 6

Answer 1

The correct option is C 2

There are 2 optical centers with the symmetry in the given molecule.

So, the optical activity compounds are $=2^{(n-1)}=2^1=2$

Number of meso isomers $=2^{(\frac{n}{2}-1)}=1$

Total isomers are $=2+1=3$.

Therefore, the correct option is $C$